Texas residents may be interested to hear of a proposed settlement in the case of former NFL players suing the football league over concussion-related injuries. The settlement, if approved by the judge, would provide over $700 million in damages, covering medical exams and injury compensation for the players.
A Senior U.S. District Court judge has announced that a settlement has been proposed to her after an extensive mediation between the NFL and attorneys representing about 4,500 former professional football players. The players alleged that the league had known about the effects of concussions received while playing. The league, the players’ attorneys claim, covered this information up to maintain their image and keep the players playing. Attorneys for the NFL argued that the players’ contracts demanded that this be handled in arbitration and that the individual teams bear the responsibility for their players’ safety and health.
– Article By Richard Weaver
The proposed settlement would mean that these issues would not be litigated, and any proof that the plaintiffs had of their allegations would not be brought to light. However, a plaintiffs’ attorney says that the settlement would allow all retired players to receive a brain assessment, with those who are impaired beyond a certain level eligible for further treatment. Those who have developed serious problems due to the concussions would receive as much as $5 million, with the families of those players that have committed suicide also eligible for a payment. The settlement awaits final approval from the presiding judge.
Traumatic brain injuries can result in serious brain damage and memory loss. An attorney who is familiar with brain and spine injuries may be able to help recover compensation for the damage caused by these injuries, by properly investigating and determining who is at fault.
Source: USA Today, “NFL reaches concussion settlement“, Gary Mihoces, August 29, 2013
